First Punta Gorda Homesite

     This signs stands at 400 West Esplanade, Punta Gorda.  On June 22, 1876 James Lockhart and family chose this site to build their new home.  The area was described as the lowest location in the region with pine trees and an adjacent shell mound.

     The Lockhart family camped at this site while building their new home. They were able to dig a well that provided excellent water.  The schooner Santa Maria arrived in the area with their belongimgs.  They planted a vegetable garden, lemon, lime and orange tree.  They raised goats, pigs, and chickens.

     In October,20, 1876 a hurricane caused severe flooding in the house.  The house was salvaged.  There were plentiful mullet and tarpon.

     Two years later, Lockhart sold his claim.to James Madison Lanier